World Wide Web
A short explanation of the concepts and tools that make up the World Wide Web.
Videos for Teaching Internet Basics
This pack includes entertaining explanations of tools, ideas, and features of the internet. These videos will help anyone build a solid foundation of knowledge about how the web works and how to use it with confidence.
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Videos in this Pack
Web Browsers
An introduction to Web Browsers and their most powerful features.
URLs (Web Addresses)
URLs, or web addresses, are fundamental parts of using the web. By understanding what a URL does and how it’s organized, we can learn about how the web is linked together and how web pages are displayed.
Website Cookies
Website cookies are an invisible but essential part of using the Web. This video explain the role of cookies in making the Web feel a little more like home.
Domain Names and Hosting
Creating a custom website for a small business can seem complicated. This video explains the basic elements that make it work by following the story of Emma, a dog walker.
IP Addresses
At the very heart of the web are a set of rules or “protocols” that let us send and receive information. By understanding Internet Protocol Addresses or IP Addresses, we can see how information is requested and delivered on the web.
Privacy Online
Using the web today can mean giving up a little privacy. The popular websites we use often collect information about nearly everything we do online. By understanding privacy online, we can be aware of how our information is being used and take steps to protect it.
Secure Websites
This video focuses on what makes websites secure and how to recognize a secure one based on signals in the web browser.
Online Advertising
We see advertising everywhere online. Using an example of a small business, this video explains the major advertising models and how they work to build awareness for a new product.
Podcasts
Podcasts have exploded in popularity because they offer an always-on resource for information and entertainment. This video explains the role podcasts play in media, how to listen to podcasts and how they fit into busy lives.
Email Access: Web-based vs. Local Email
We use email every day, but many don’t understand how it works behind-the-scenes. This video is a basic introduction to how we access and manage email using servers.
Web Conferencing and Webinars
Thanks to the internet, a different kind of meeting is possible. Instead of attendees having to travel to meet, they can now participate in web conferences or webinars from anywhere with an internet connection. This video explains the basics of web conferencing and how it’s used.
Phishing Scams
A short guide to recognizing and avoiding email phishing scams.
Ransomware
Ransomware is a growing threat to computer users, from large corporations to individuals. This video explains the concept and what can be done to prevent it.
Private or Incognito Browsing
Web browsers come with a feature called Private or Incognito Browsing. The feature can be useful, and using it properly requires an understanding of what it does and why. This video explains Private or Incognito browsing.
Documents: Online vs Local
Documents play the same role they always have, but how we create and share them has evolved significantly. This video explains online documents and how they differ from local documents saved on a computer.
Internet of Things
The internet is evolving. It used to be made of computers, but today, the internet includes all sorts of “things” that can work together. This video explains the Internet of Things and what it can mean for both individuals and communities.
Cloud Computing
An introduction to the basics of cloud computing and how it’s changing the way businesses and individuals think about software and data.
Online Discussion Forums
Discussion forums have always been an essential part of the Internet and they continue to be important today. But for the unfamiliar, forums can seem confusing and intimidating.
Social Media
Not long ago, media was only created by people and organizations that could afford the technology. The internet changed that and today, media can be created by anyone with an internet connection. This change in media has transformed how we think about information, collaboration and more.
Net Neutrality
The debate on Net Neutrality is about the future of the Internet and outcomes from this debate could impact every internet user. This video explains what net neutrality is and why it matters, by focusing first on the idea of neutrality.
Online Basics - Digital Lifestyle
Part of becoming more digitally literate is adopting a digital lifestyle. That means using computers, devices and the internet to communicate and create. This video explains the basics of living a digital lifestyle.
Online Basics - Online Accounts
To access the most powerful parts of the web, people usually need to have accounts on popular websites. This video explains how to create accounts on websites and manage usernames and passwords.
Online Basics - Online Identity
There are 2 basic versions of most websites, the version that anyone can see and the version that can only be seen by logging in. This video focuses on online identity and how it can be used to unlock the most powerful tools and services on the web.
QR Codes
An introduction to QR Code technology which makes the real world clickable like a website.
Two Factor Authentication
For too long, passwords were the only thing standing between criminals and valuable information you keep online. Now, websites and apps are adding a second layer of security called Two Factor Authentication and this video explains why it matters, and how it works.
Blogs
A short introduction to blogs - how they work and why they matter.
Wikis
Collaboration on the internet is often difficult. Wikis are a kind of website that helps solve the problem by creating a single place for a group to collaborate and share information. This video explains the big idea behind wikis.
Cyberbullying
Unfortunately, bullies are a part of our world. And today, they often use phones, computers and social media to threaten, harass and intimidate others. This is called Cyberbullying, and we can all learn ways to help limit the pain and damage it causes.
Encryption on the Web
We now depend on the Internet for so many sensitive things like bank transactions and private emails. Behind the scenes, encryption is working to make it all secure and this video explains the basics.
Net Neutrality
The debate on Net Neutrality is about the future of the Internet and outcomes from this debate could impact every internet user. This video explains what net neutrality is and why it matters, by focusing first on the idea of neutrality.
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What educators say about Common Craft videos...
My company does training for managers and employees across industries. Common Craft videos earn the attention of our audience, provide a break from lectures, and are always fun to discuss afterwards.
Marc Rideout
President
Corporate Human Resource Solutions, Inc.
I always recommend Common Craft videos to school staff. Students love them because they're relevant, short and present information in memorable chunks.
Hayley Brese
Library Media Specialist
Arlington ISD
Whether I am teaching students or fellow teachers, Common Craft's clear and concise videos help me reach learners at every level.
Jessica Donaldson
Teacher / Professional Development
Berkeley County School District
I use Common Craft videos because they are fun and effective visual explanations of tech concepts that are otherwise hard to explain.
BJ McKewon
Consultant/Trainer
State Library of Iowa
Common Craft videos are well crafted and break down complex ideas into simple, easily digestible nuggets. I use them as jumping points for discussions and meetings.
Dr. Robin Yap
Professor
George Brown College
Common Craft videos are exceptionally well-done. They are accurate and to-the-point videos around topics of great relevance. I use them as part of an Activating Strategy.
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FAQs About Common Craft Videos
What is Common Craft?
Common Craft is a member-supported service that produces original educational videos and storytelling visuals called Cut-outs. Learners, educators, and communicators access our content through Common Craft membership. Our specialty is explanation and educating with context and clarity.
What are Common Craft videos?
Common Craft videos are short, animated videos designed to explain an emerging or complicated subject in about three minutes. All videos are produced by Common Craft and meant for ages middle school and up. We've been producing explainer videos since 2007 and have developed a unique and effective approach to education.
How do members use Common Craft videos?
Common Craft videos are used for personal education and teaching in classrooms, online meetings, learning resources, and more. Our videos are often used to introduce and explain a new subject.
How much does it cost to use Common Craft videos?
What subjects do you cover?
Our members help us decide what videos to make. Most titles are focused on responsible use of computers and the internet. This includes internet safety, online citizenship, computer basics, study skills, and more. See all titles in our video library.
How many videos are in the video library?
Our video library is growing constantly and we currently offer 120
videos.
Are Common Craft videos available with captions?
Yes. Videos in the library come with an open-captioned version in English.
Do you provide transcripts for videos?
Yes. Under each video in our library, there is a link “More Info + Transcript” that reveals the transcript and major points covered in the video.
What are Lesson Plans?
Lesson Plans are downloadable documents designed to help teachers use our videos in the classroom. Each lesson plan includes learning objectives, discussion questions, Q&A, and links for further reading. Most Common Craft videos include a Lesson Plan. Learn more about Lesson Plans.
Do your videos contain Common Craft logos or advertisements?
No. Our goal is for our members to be the star. The videos do not contain Common Craft logos, advertisements or title scenes. Please note that a small copyright notice appears near the end of each video.
Can you help me create my own explainer video?
Yes. We offer online, self-paced courses and live workshops that teach explanation and video production skills at the Explainer Academy.
Can I hire you to create a custom explainer video?
Yes. Learn more about our custom video services.